Vocabulary Matters : A Literature Review on Vocabulary Acquisition in the Swedish ESL Classroom

Sammanfattning

The aim of this literature review is to examine how vocabulary acquisition can be effectively supported in upper secondary English as a second language (ESL) education, with a focus on the Swedish school context. Vocabulary acquisition is understood as a complex process and a central component of language proficiency. The review is composed of thirteen peer-reviewed articles published within the last ten years, as well as I.S.P. Nation (2013), a pioneer in vocabulary studies. Our findings indicate that vocabulary development should be supported through scaffolded activities and deliberate vocabulary instruction. This can be achieved through supported incidental learning in reading activities, texts selected for reading and the usage of digital tools. Rather than relying solely on vocabulary acquisition as incidental, words being picked up along the way, teachers should view vocabulary development as an active and deliberate part of their instructional practice.